On Thursday, NFL Network's Michelle Beisner did some digging to find out precisely how involved Manning was in the process. Beisner reported, per a source close to the situation, that John Elway, the Broncos' executive vice president of football operations, requested Manning contact Welker. Beisner reported Manning did have influence in the decision to acquire Welker.

Brooks: Two of a kind

While Wes Welker certainly boosts the
Broncos, the
Patriots will be just fine with Danny Amendola.
Bucky Brooks explains.
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Surely Manning had no qualms about adding a receiver with 240 receptions in the past two seasons.

The assumption is that Welker will take the spot of Manning's buddy, Brandon Stokley. Beisner found out more on this as well, saying Manning felt a bit awkward given their close friendship. The source close to the situation told Beisner that Manning still "has the utmost respect" for Stokley, a free agent. In 2012, Stokley caught 45 passes for 544 yards and five touichdowns with Manning.